Berberis Cherry Bomb

Cherry Bomb Barberry

Berberis thunbergii ‘Cherry Bomb’ (Cherry Bomb® Barberry)
A compact, deciduous ornamental shrub prized for its striking burgundy-red foliage, bright red berries, and dramatic fall color. Its spiny branches and dense growth make it effective as a low hedge, barrier planting, or standout garden accent.

Size:



Width: 3–4 ft (~0.9–1.2 m)



Height: 3–4 ft (~0.9–1.2 m)



Zones: 4a–8b

Light: Full sun to partial shade (best foliage color in full sun)

Soil: Adaptable to a range of well-drained soils; drought tolerant once established

Features:



Foliage: Burgundy-red leaves that often deepen in autumn



Flowers: Small yellow spinesy branches produce inconspicuous yellow flowers in spring



Fruit: Bright scarlet berries in fall and winter that attract birds



Form: Rounded, dense, mounded shrub with a barrier habit



Attracts: Birds (to berries; shelter in thickets)

Uses:
Low hedge, mixed shrub borders, barrier planting, specimen accent

Notes:
This cultivar has sharp spines on its branches and can be resistant to deer. In some regions Japanese barberry cultivars can be invasive; check local guidelines before planting.

Plant type

Deciduous Shrub

Height

3'-4'

Width

3'-4'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

Yellow

Leaf color

Red

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation, Hedge

Shape

Rounded

Drought tolerant

Yes